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Use pumice on enameled cast iron bathtub?

2 years ago

Some mineral deposit "runs" have formed below the jets on the Kohler enameled cast iron tub. Can I use pumice to remove them?

Featured Answer

just_janni

2 years ago

soft scrub or barkeepers friend would be my go to, possibly bon-ami

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Comments (12)

krissie55
2 years ago
No, pumice will dull the emanel finish making it more attractive for mineral deposits to cling to. I use Lime-a-Way (a liquid) on mineral deposits.
socks thanked krissie55
socks
Original Author
2 years ago
Thank you. That’s what I thought.
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roarah
2 years ago
Peroxide is also safe to use to remove any rust stains left from bleaching the tub. Bleach will rust cast iron tubs.
socks
Original Author
2 years ago
I tried Lime Away and CLR, which didn't work, then called Kohler who said I should not have used those products but I could try vinegar. I'll do that.
chispa
2 years ago
I've used the pumice stone for mineral deposit inside toilet bowls and that worked really well and didn't cause damage, but that is a different material from your tub. Good luck!
socks thanked chispa
socks
Original Author
2 years ago
Exactly, Chispa. The tub is enamel coated cast iron. Toilet is something else even tho' the look the same.

I called Kohler, and they said to follow their directions running the tub with bleach and dishwasher detergent. I did that to no effect. I tried Lime Away and CLR, and the Kohler lady said I shouldn't have done that. I used great caution with those products, so no harm done there. She said I could use vinegar and it would not harm the bottom either. I'll try that, and I know there is a stronger vinegar for cleaning, but I'm not sure where to get it.
Elizabeth
2 years ago
Lysol toilet bowl cleaner. The strong one in the black bottle. Says it removes mineral stains and it does. Leave it on half an hour and scrub lightly with an old toothbrush. Wash the area well with soap and water afterwards to remove any traces of toilet bowl cleaner.
lindac92
2 years ago
Barkeepers friend is a reducing agent while chlorine is an oxidizing agent....different ways of removing stains....try barkeepers friend....it's vefry good on rust as it contains oxalic acid. Don't scrub, just lay it on and rub gently.
socks thanked lindac92
socks
Original Author
2 years ago
Its not rust; its white mineral depost. Apparently the jets weep a bit after the tub or shower are used. I didnt realize it until too late.
krissie55
2 years ago
How to use vinegar:https://www.hunker.com/13421772/how-to-clean-cast-iron-tubs
socks
Original Author
2 years ago
That's helpful, Krissie. I'll try that.

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